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A review by zena_ryder
Abraham Lincoln: Redeemer President by Allen C. Guelzo
5.0
I very much enjoyed this biography. It focused more on the development of Lincoln's thought, including his religious beliefs (and lack of them) than the other biography I've read (A. Lincoln). According to Guelzo, Lincoln's religious beliefs became stronger during the trials of the Civil War, but he was never as devout as he wanted to be, and he never felt worthy of redemption. While he seems always to have believed in God to a greater or lesser degree, he was never much of a church-goer and he was also never drawn to a loving Jesus — Lincoln's God was more remote and judgemental.
Guelzo also talks about Lincoln's political views in this book. We all know that Lincoln was anti-slavery (although he was not an abolitionist — pretty much right up until he issued the emancipation proclamation!) but he always believed very strongly that all people should have the right to work to earn their own wages, and that this was the key to a successful American republic. He approved of technological progress and was a strong supporter of the new railroads, for example.
Once again, I longed for more details about his relationship with Mary, but once again they were not forthcoming. I think perhaps that history may not have passed that down to us, but I will try looking for a readable biography of Mary Todd Lincoln. (I did try one once and it was deathly dull reading.) I do get the impression from this book that their relationship was less harmonious than the impression I got from A. Lincoln. It's clear, however, that Lincoln loved his children very much and when there was a death in the family, he suffered greatly (as did Mary).
Guelzo did a masterful job of describing the assassination and Lincoln's death. It was very moving and brought tears to my eyes. Lincoln is a fascinating individual, and this book is a highly worthy addition to your bookshelf.
Guelzo also talks about Lincoln's political views in this book. We all know that Lincoln was anti-slavery (although he was not an abolitionist — pretty much right up until he issued the emancipation proclamation!) but he always believed very strongly that all people should have the right to work to earn their own wages, and that this was the key to a successful American republic. He approved of technological progress and was a strong supporter of the new railroads, for example.
Once again, I longed for more details about his relationship with Mary, but once again they were not forthcoming. I think perhaps that history may not have passed that down to us, but I will try looking for a readable biography of Mary Todd Lincoln. (I did try one once and it was deathly dull reading.) I do get the impression from this book that their relationship was less harmonious than the impression I got from A. Lincoln. It's clear, however, that Lincoln loved his children very much and when there was a death in the family, he suffered greatly (as did Mary).
Guelzo did a masterful job of describing the assassination and Lincoln's death. It was very moving and brought tears to my eyes. Lincoln is a fascinating individual, and this book is a highly worthy addition to your bookshelf.